pedal
UK: ˈpɛd(ə)l | US: ˈpɛd(ə)l
n. a foot-operated lever or control, as in a bicycle or piano
vt. to operate or propel by using pedals
adj. relating to the foot or feet
The word "pedal" traces back to the Latin root "ped-" (meaning "foot"), derived from "pes, pedis." The suffix "-al" (from Latin "-alis") denotes relation or pertaining to. Originally used in mechanical contexts (e.g., bicycle pedals), it later expanded to describe foot-operated mechanisms in music (piano pedals) and other domains. The logic is straightforward: "pedal" literally means "related to the foot."
She pressed the piano pedal to sustain the note.
Cyclists must pedal steadily to maintain speed.
The car’s brake pedal felt stiff.
This machine is operated by a foot pedal.
He adjusted the pedal height for better comfort.